Interdependence and Partnership: Building Blocks to Sustainable Development

We are living in a turning point in society's relation with its environment. A first wave of heightened environmental awareness led to the recognition of widespread resource depletion, air and water quality deterioration, forest losses, waste increase, etc., and the need to act on it. The second wave, and we are now on its threshold, is recognition that bringing solutions to this vast range of problems is immensely complex, and will require a much broader-based approach if the solution is to be effective.The interaction needed between business and society in meeting this challenge is increasingly visible, and is resulting in strong and inevitable interdependencies. New forms of participating in society, and of interacting with each other, are being developed by all stakeholders. Moreover this is a potential win–win situation for all involved, and companies can explore these interdependencies and extend them beyond traditional communication into partnerships.